Meghalaya Jaintia Doh Pork Sesame Black Curry Jaintia Hills

Method

1. 1

   Dry-roast black sesame seeds in a pan stirring constantly for 4 to 5 minutes until they pop and smell deeply nutty. Cool. Grind to a coarse paste with 3 tbsp water in a blender or mortar.

2. 2

   Heat 1 tbsp mustard oil in a heavy pot. Add finely chopped onion. Cook 5 minutes until softened.

3. 3

   Add sliced ginger and crushed garlic. Cook 2 minutes.

4. 4

   Add pork pieces. Brown on medium-high heat for 5 minutes, turning.

5. 5

   Add turmeric, black pepper and salt. Stir.

6. 6

   Add the black sesame paste. Stir to coat all pork pieces — the paste makes the curry deep grey-black in colour.

7. 7

   Add 2 cups water and slit green chillies. Bring to a boil. Skim any foam.

8. 8

   Reduce to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 35 to 40 minutes until pork is completely tender and the sesame gravy clings to each piece.

9. 9

   Remove lid for the last 10 minutes to thicken the gravy slightly.

10. 10

    Serve with steamed rice.